Frequently Asked Questions

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MTEL

• Information about the MTEL, including the Alternative Assessment Pilot and draft Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Communication and Literacy Skills Framework can be found on the MTEL page. See the list of MTEL FAQs.
• Preparation
  • What resources are there to prepare for the MTEL?
    • DESE offers a free ESL MTEL Test Prep Course. Additional free test prep courses are coming soon! Additional test preparation materials and courses are listed at Test Preparation Materials and Courses List.
• Program Requirements
  • Is passing the MTELs required for program completion? What should we consider when creating our MTEL policies? Can our program change our MTEL policies?
    • The MTEL is a licensure requirement, not a program completion requirement. Approved preparation programs have the authority to determine their own policies regarding MTEL passage and program completion or continuation. Providers that position MTELs as a determining factor in decisions about admission, continuation in, or completion of initial teacher preparation programs should interrogate the implications of this policy. Please refer to the 2023 MTEL Use Advisory for additional information about MTEL policies for approved preparation programs.
• Required Tests
  • Which tests are required for which license(s)?
    • You can view the list of Subject Matter Test Requirements at Subject Matter Test Requirements.

Last Updated: November 28, 2025